Understanding the Firefighter Hiring Process

After filling out an initial application for a firefighting job, candidates vying for a position within a fire department can expect to take several qualifying exams. To be hired as a firefighter, you must pass all these tests, exams, and interviews. The following table outlines the types of exams and gives you a general overview of what to expect during each exam:

Exam Type

What to Expect

Written Exam

An exam featuring multiple-choice questions in a variety of
subject areas; it lasts at least 2.5 hours

Physical Ability Test

Typically a timed exam that assesses candidates’ physical
fitness, including strength, endurance, and flexibility, to ensure
that they’re physically capable to begin a fire training
academy

Oral Interview

An interview with a hiring panel that may include fire
department leaders, local government representatives, and local
businesspeople

Medical Exam

A complete physical performed by a certified physician to check
candidates for a variety of medical conditions and to ensure that
they’re healthy enough to train to become firefighters

Psychological Evaluation

A personality questionnaire and/or an interview with a
psychologist or psychiatrist to ensure that candidates can mentally
handle the stress of firefighting